min6 cing1面青
Jyutpingmin6 cing1
Yalemihn chīng
Definition
Pale-faced from being extremely scared or sickly.
colloquialbodyhealth
How it's used
This term describes a sudden loss of color in the face due to intense fear or physical illness. It is often reduplicated as 面青青 to emphasize the severity of the pallor. While it can describe a medical condition, it is most frequently used in casual conversation to describe someone looking terrified.
Examples
He was so scared of the cockroach that he turned pale.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being light-skinned or having a fair complexion. It specifically refers to a change in appearance caused by an external shock or internal ailment, so using it to describe someone's natural skin tone will sound like you are suggesting they are ill.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
